In 1942, as part of the Western Desert Campaign of World War II, the British SAS (Special Air Service) and the LRDG (Long Range Desert Group) conducted a raid on Sidi Haneish Airfield to free up African airspace from German Luftwaffe forces. Led by David Stirling, the forces used eighteen jeeps mounted with Vickers K machine guns to attack the airfield and destroy German aircraft. Despite some casualties, the raid was a success, resulting in the destruction of 37 German aircraft and various personnel casualties. The operation stands as an early example of the SAS’s expertise and led to their legendary reputation.
Key Points:
- Target and Objective: The Raid on Sidi Haneish Airfield targeted German Luftwaffe stationed at the airbase, with the objective to cripple German air capabilities in Africa, especially targeting Ju 87 Stuka Dive-Bombers, Ju 52 cargo aircraft, and Bf 109 fighters.
- Planning and Execution: Commanded by David Stirling, the plan was to mount Vickers K machine guns on LRDG jeeps and shoot up as many aircraft as possible. The raid was executed with two columns of nine jeeps each, occurring on the dusk hours of the 26th of July, with a forward base set up for starting and retreating.
- Result and Impact: The raid resulted in the destruction of 37 German aircraft, with one SAS operative and three jeeps lost by the allied forces. The loss of Ju 52 cargo aircraft, in particular, impacted German supply lines, making it more difficult to transport supplies to the front.
- LRDG’s Role: The Long Range Desert Group played a crucial role in the raid, initially formed in 1940 for long-range desert reconnaissance and intelligence missions. Their involvement was essential for the successful execution of the plan.
- Legacy of the SAS: The sheer audacity of the attack, combined with its success, contributed to the SAS’s legendary reputation throughout the war, epitomizing their motto ‘who dares wins’, and solidifying their standing as an elite special forces unit.
Source: https://www.rebellionresearch.com/sas-raid-on-sidi-haneish-airfield-courage-under-fire
